"Physical therapists can use second-hand gym equipment, traction tables, treatment beds, treatment modalities like ultrasound, biodex isokinetic units, aquatic treadmills, other cardiovascular equipment and small items like weights, BOSU's, wobble boards and really anything," says Kate McDonald, a physical therapist based in Atlanta. "Even office equipment such as computers, skeleton models and posters can be purchased on the used market as they are more expensive than you would think."

Economy Effects


While almost anything can be refurbished and sold as good as new, there are some products that are hard to come by.

"Locating quality late model used equipment is a problem," says Dawn Errigo, sales manager for ProMedixMD. "We have seen a decrease in business due to the economy and a lack of available equipment. I have the orders in hand, we just can't locate the equipment at a price that's profitable for us and is a discount for our customers."

The economy can also be blamed for a decrease in business for some, as a number of physical therapists have decided to hold off on buying anything new for the time being and are turning to other equipment in the case of a break down.

"With the current state of the economy, business has slowed but not stopped," Errigo says. "The first choice is to have their equipment repaired and if that fails, then purchasing quality refurbished equipment is the next economical solution."

James Hayward, owner/president of Hayward Medical, Inc., also mentions the rising cost of steel in manufacturing as a rising economic problem. Since most exercise equipment uses steel, it has seen a price increase in recent years.

Refurbishment Trends

Ultrasound therapy is another modality seeing consistent growth. While the market may generally be sluggish for this equipment, orders for refurbished and quality used ultrasounds are experiencing reasonable sales for physical therapy applications.

"We are seeing a lot more home therapy and pain care doctors popping up and buying this type of technology and adding to their rehab type atmosphere," says Randy Smedley president of Clinical Engineering Consultants, Inc. "They are adding more and more of the ultrasound technologies to their office and looking to buy used models."

Older systems are in demand because a doctor can save 40% to 60% compared to the cost of buying new ultrasound equipment.

"Ultrasound technology has not changed. Waves are waves and the method of application and delivery has not changed so as long as the units are remaining calibrated and are checked periodically, and the therapy criterion doesn't change, there is no reason not to go with a refurbished unit," Smedley says.

More Industry Reports